Shows
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP68 - Software Venture Capital Is BrokenThe $30B Mistake: Why Startups Fail and Investors Sleepwalk Through It💥 Massimiliano Sulpizi exposes what’s broken in **venture capital** and offers a cure: **Equity Match**, a platform blending **AI**, mentorship, and real founder support. Discover how he's teaching startups to build, not just pitch, in a world where 97.5% still fail.---🧠 Executive Summary:This world is sick.Startups are collapsing. Founders are burning out. Investors are flying blind.And no one is asking the question that actually matters:Can this team rea...2025-07-221h 03
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP67 - How Do I Evolve My Company Without Losing My People?Succession isn’t just an HBO drama.It’s real. It’s messy. And when it happens inside a high-growth SaaS company, it can break everything.In this raw, unfiltered episode of Forge of Unicorns, we sit down with 🇫🇷 Adrien Salvat, CEO of WebInterpret to launch our brand-new format:🎙️ “𝗜𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗖𝗘𝗢”💥 What’s the story?Adrien didn’t just survive a founder exit.He rebuilt the company — culturally, structurally, and emotionally — without losing his people.And he did it while staring down the biggest hype tsunami of the decade: GenAI.“If you’re transparent with your peop...2025-07-1557 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP66 - The $1M AI Mercenary Problem💥 Your tech budget is burning—and hiring hype can kill your culture.Here’s the brutal truth:Boards are shelling out $1M+ to AI engineers—none of whom are scientists in the classical senseMeta’s Superintelligence Lab just dangled $100M–$300M packages for top AI talent, while tens of thousands of good people got laid offWorse: Investors are funding AI hires not to build software, but to create products that enable layoffs—fueling a toxic, nonsensical cycleIn this eye-opening episode, Michele Brissoni sits down with...2025-07-0854 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP65 - Vibe Coding: Beauty or Beast?AI was supposed to help us build organizations faster.Instead, it’s flooding the market with fragile MVPs and founders who lack the knowledge to scale.Welcome to Episode 65 of Forge of Unicorns, where illusions shatter and the ugly truths of software engineering are exposed.🎧 This week: Most Capital founders Kamila Michalkiewicz and Ágúst Berg Arnarsson join us to unpack the real risks behind AI-fueled hype in startups and web3 organizations.--- 🔍 What You’ll Learn:• Why most AI-generated MVPs are architectural...2025-07-011h 06
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️E64 - AI, Code, Care... When organizations stop guessing and start assessing.🤔 Startups pitch AI like magic. But what happens when vibe-coded prototypes crash in production?👉 Who’s inspecting the code, not just the pitch deck?In this Forge of Unicorns episode, Dr. Jeremy Krell—Managing Partner at Revere Partners—reveals how real VCs assess risk in a post-hype market. With 40% of Revere’s portfolio in software, Jeremy’s team doesn’t just bet on the founder—they inspect the architecture, the codebase, and the clinical impact.From the operating room to the terminal, Mike & Jeremy show us why engineering diligence is no longer optional....2025-06-2456 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP63 - Is the AI bubble coming? And if so… who do you trust to deal with it?🤔 Investors are pouring billions into AI. But what if this is dot-com bubble 2.0?👉 Who will spot the real risks — hidden inside the code, and inside the culture?In this Forge of Unicorns episode, Maria de la Puente, one of the most respected investor advisors, reveals why today’s boards must evolve fast — or risk flying blind.From the boardroom to the engineering floor, Mike & Maria expose the trust gaps no spreadsheet can fix:👉 Why trusted TECH advisors and NEDs are now critical to governance👉 Why behavioral signals are the new fronti...2025-06-101h 24
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP62 - The Common Secret Behind Mining ⛏️, F1 🏎️ & MotoGP 🏍️ Evolution. Let’s Finally Bring It to Software!🤔 Why did Mining ⛏️, Formula 1 🏎️, and MotoGP 🏍️ evolve—and Software didn’t?In this episode of Forge of Unicorns, Nicolás Bañados, Managing Partner at Galgo Capital, helps us uncover the behavioral system behind industries that evolved from danger to precision—while the software world is still fighting over frameworks and labels.From mines to pitlanes, Mike draws the powerful parallel:In all those environments, people arrive as apprentices—and evolve into high-performance professionals through structured mentorship, feedback loops, and mastery.⸻🎧 Episode 62: The Common Secret Behind Mining, F1 & MotoGP Evolu...2025-06-031h 00
Italian Agile Movement Podcast19. IAD23: Building a culture of sw craftmanship con Michele BrissoniSeguici e associati su https://www.agileday.itIn collaborazione con Agile Italia Magazine https://agileitalia.agileforitaly.com/2025-06-0333 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP61 - The Hidden CEO Hiring Trap: Why Only 1 in 4,000 Make ItAre you prepared for the real risks of CEO succession, or any other CXO hiring? In this episode of Forge of Unicorns, investor and behavioral screening expert Ron Ondechek reveals the hidden traps that boardrooms, PE/VC firms, and founders face every time a new CEO is chosen. Every time a new leader joins your organization. The risks connected with casual HR hiring by pedigree and resume.🔑 What you’ll learn:Why over 4,000 CEO candidates fail each year—and what makes the “1” stand outThe behavioral engineering secrets behind real-world leadership transitionsThe emotional trauma and cultural risks every...2025-05-271h 02
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP60 - AI first is dead! 💀 Klarna, Babylon, Forward… Who’s Next? The Pattern Behind AI Failures🕯️ The Torch 🔥 AI-First Leaders Dropped: Purpose---Klarna. Babylon. Forward.Three companies. Three massive AI-first bets.All failed.Why? They scaled tech. They injected the market hype: #AIBut, they forgot to align humans in their AI-driven organization!In this episode of Forge of Unicorns, VC and unicorn builder Pedro Lopez Sela joins Mike to expose the deeper reason behind these collapses… and the blueprint that could have prevented them.🚫 This isn’t about tools, frameworks, or automation.🎯 It’s abo...2025-05-201h 09
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP59 - OKR – The Agile Resurrector 🧬Agile is collapsing under its own market weight.Drowned in certifications, fake agility coaches, and checkbox processes.The purpose? Forgotten.The manifesto? Commercialized.The results? Burnout, silos, disengagement.It’s not a transformation.It’s a crime scene.💥 But what if we could resurrect Agile from the wreckage?Not with another framework.Not with another Jira template.But with OKRs — the real ones.👉 Not dashboards.👉 Not vanity metrics.👉 But behavioral scaffol...2025-05-131h 16
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP58 - You Don’t Even Know What Good Looks Like. That’s Why Your Company is Stuck!They think they’re doing software right. But they’ve never seen real excellence.That’s the leadership trap and why companies stall, lose talent, and drift into mediocrity.In this honest conversation with unicorn builder Alexander Steeb, we expose the hidden dysfunctions behind underperforming IT teams, blind leadership, and the cost of hype-driven decisions.👉 Why most organizations don’t know what good looks like👉 How “walking assets” leave silently when excellence is missing👉 Why founders need coaching more than capital👉 And what PE firms must fix before trying t...2025-05-061h 04
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP57 - When Excellence Isn’t Optional: How Healthcare Mastery Exposes IT’s Compliance IllusionCompliance isn’t excellence.And in today’s IT world, that illusion is costing millions — and lives.In this powerful episode, Michele Brissoni (Creator of the Unicorns’ Ecosystem and SW Craftsmanship Dojo®) is joined by Ute Mercker (Investment Director @IBB Ventures) to uncover a brutal but critical truth:✅ In healthcare, regulations protect human lives.👨🏻⚕️ But it’s doctors’ mastery, ethics, and relentless practice that actually save them.✅ In IT and software-driven organizations, leadership often hides behind compliance.🏥 But without behavioral excellence, they’re building risk — not resilience.✅...2025-04-291h 06
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️EP 56 - Professionalism Isn’t OptionalMost startups don’t die from bad code. They die from bad leadership.In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, I sit down with Bryony Cooper (VC, founder, and human-first investor) to unravel the silent killers of startup growth: vanity metrics, boardroom dysfunction, and uncoached leadership.🚨 You’ll learn:• Why professionalism becomes non-negotiable at Series A/B• How bad behavior at the top spreads like wildfire• Why burnout isn’t a founder failure—it’s a system failure• How elite organizations scale people and systems together• The...2025-04-221h 01
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP55 - From Mediocracy to Mastery 🧭 Rewiring Leadership🎧 EP55 – From Mediocracy to Mastery 🧭 Rewiring Leadership🏷️ How to escape organization mediocracy!Most teams aren’t broken — their leadership is underpowered.In this pivotal episode, Calm Capital’s Marty Balkema and David Horne reveal what really fuels sustainable growth: stewardship, not transformation.From owning vertical SaaS companies to rebuilding cultures from the boardroom down, Calm Capital shows us what happens when leadership gets the coaching, clarity, and support it actually needs.🧠 Inside the episode:Why 91% of digital transformations fail — and how stewardship flips the equation.The secret sauce behind C...2025-04-151h 20
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP54 - Mediocrity is a leadership choice!When we say “mediocrity is a leadership choice,” we’re not just being dramatic. In this first face-off between researcher and investor, Mike challenges the venture capital mindset—and VC Oussama Glilah (@ Razor Capital) doesn’t just agree… he confirms it all.💥 From the absence of engineering standards to the myth of plug-and-play talent, this episode dismantles the fantasy that unicorns are born from flashy ideas or frameworks.🔧 They’re built—through behaviorally engineered environments, prompt design, and holistic-elite upskilling that replace cookie-cutter training in favor of more modern programs based on the latest neuroplasticity discov...2025-04-0851 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP53 - VibeCoding Won’t Build Unicorns 🦄 … they are engineered 👷🏻♂️In this mind-blowing episode, I sit down with Andy Will, founder of Willpower Venture Capital, to reveal a bold new approach: behavioral engineering as the ultimate VC advantage.Forget spreadsheets and cookie-cutter playbooks — Andy shares how he backs founders who build elite teams, set cultural standards from day one, and scale without the chaos.🔥 Inside the episode:• Why 0.9% of tech talent is all that matters — and how to find it• How to detect and detox toxic cultures before they sink your startup• The dark truth be...2025-04-0151 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP 52 - The Quantum Invasion Is Here: Why Your Software Won’t Survive What’s Coming🚀 The Quantum Shift Has Officially Begun… 🚀This week on Forge of Unicorns, we sit down with Matthew Cimaglia, Tech Innovator | Multi-Time Founder | Managing Partner at Quantum Coast Capital, leading the charge in quantum technology investments.With NVIDIA’s jaw-dropping Quantum Day announcement, the race just got real. Matthew unpacks:✅ Why Quantum is the next AI moment — but way bigger✅ How coding for Quantum today avoids tomorrow’s tech debt nightmare✅ Why the security apocalypse is closer than you think — and crappy software is doomed💣 “We either invest billions i...2025-03-2547 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele Brissoni🎙️ EP 51 – Sam Palazzolo Confirms Our Research💡 Most companies waste millions on digital transformation—and fail. What if, instead, you could engineer IT into a high-value asset that fuels exponential growth?93% of digital transformations fail. Companies throw money at new tech, yet only 7% see real results. Why? Because transformation isn’t just about software—it’s about leadership, execution, and strategy.🎙️ In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, Michele Brissoni sits down with Sam Palazzolo, Managing Director at Tip of the Spear Ventures, an elite business strategist who has helped companies scale from $10 million to $1 billion and beyond. With over 1,000 organ...2025-03-2050 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 50 - 97.5% of IT Investments Are DOOMED 📉🎙️ Episode 50: The Unicorns’ Ecosystem—Flipping the Script on IT Investments 🚀📰 Original blog post: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ep-50-975-investments-doomed-heres-how-top-flipping-brissoni-np79f/---💰 97.5% of IT investments NEVER reach unicorn status.📉 Even those that do, 80% see their valuations crash—nearly 30% fall below the $1B mark.🤯 Yet, most investors still rely on gut instinct instead of engineering high-performance companies from day one.🚨 Why do so many IT investments fail? More importantly—how do we fix it?In Episode 50 of The Forge of Unicorns, we pull back the curtain on the...2025-03-1814 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP49- Want to Engineer Unicorns 🦄?🎙️ Episode 49 - The Open-Source Playbook Investors Are Using to Engineer Unicorns 🚀📰 Original Blog post: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ep-49-want-engineer-unicorns-open-source-playbook-already-brissoni-8gpuf/🛑 52% of Fortune 500 Companies Have Vanished Since 2000—Have We Really Learned Why They Failed?👉 Some investors have—and they’re quietly engineering unicorns while others keep making the same mistakes.In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, we unveil the ultimate open-source playbook for Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC) investors looking to transform IT from a cost sink into a billion-dollar asset.Most IT investments f...2025-03-1117 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP48 - Fake Productivity: The Deadly Illusion of AI-Generated Code 💣🎙️ EP 48 – Fake Productivity: The Deadly Illusion of AI-Generated Code 💣📰 Original blog post with all the bibliography: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ep48-fake-productivity-deadly-illusion-ai-generated-brissoni-rlp8c/---AI-generated code is flooding development workflows faster than ever—but are we really moving forward, or are we just accelerating into chaos?In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, Michele Brissoni unpacks the hard-hitting data behind two years of GenAI-assisted coding and exposes the hidden costs that investors, engineering leaders, and dev teams can’t afford to ignore:🚨 39.9% dro...2025-03-0417 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP47 - Lost Millions in IT?🎙️💣 Lost Millions in IT? Here’s the 300% Stock Surge Playbook Auditors Loved 😍 🎙️📰 Original article - HERE.Hey digital warriors! ⚔️In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, we dive deep into an incredible IT turnaround story—from hemorrhaging millions to a 300% stock surge, all thanks to behavioral engineering, OKRs, and rock-solid IT governance. 💥What’s inside this episode?✅ How a crumbling IT organization transformed into a high-performing powerhouse.✅ The secret sauce: behaviorally engineered OKRs driving both strategic and tactical execution.✅ The auditor-approved governance overhaul t...2025-02-2511 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP46 - Scaling Excellence: The OKR Lessons from a Bold CIO ✨🎙️ EP46 - Scaling Excellence: The OKR Lessons from a Bold CIO 🎙️📰 Orignal Blog Post: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ep46-scaling-excellence-okr-lessons-from-bold-cio-michele-brissoni-cbhef/?trackingId=870B2EfrQOWfg2mHtoihuw%3D%3DAre your OKRs driving true excellence, or are they just glorified KPIs enforcing compliance?In this episode, we break down a real-world transformation where a bold CIO turned OKRs into a north star for technical mastery—scaling an IT organization from near-collapse to a model of software craftsmanship.🚀 What’s inside this episode?✅ How Strategic OKRs redefine engineering standards and reshape...2025-02-1815 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 45 - The Dojos' Ecosystem🎙️ Episode 45📇 From Mediocracy to Mastery: How the Dojos’ Ecosystem Became the Engine of Evolution 🌱In the AI-driven economy, software excellence isn’t a luxury—it’s a competitive necessity. The recent DeepSeek R1 launch sent shockwaves through the market, wiping over $1 trillion from the Nasdaq, proving that high-quality software beats brute-force infrastructure spending.But how do you systematically engineer a culture of excellence in software organizations? 🤔🔍 In this episode, we break it all down:✅ How a disengaged, underperforming tech hub became an elite software powerhouse 🌍🔥✅ The Dojos’ Ecosystem—a framew...2025-02-1118 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 44 - Behind the CurtainEP 44 - Behind the Curtain: The Digital Evolution That Redefined Excellence 🎭🚀📰 Original Blog Post🔊 IT was a liability. Deployments were slow. Teams were burned out. Leadership was flying blind. Sound familiar?This episode pulls back the curtain on a real story from the trenches—where IT, once a black hole of inefficiency, was rewired into a $5B strategic goldmine.📉 What went wrong?•Legacy tech was strangling innovation.•Feature releases crawled out quarterly (if they even made it).•The team was drowning in manual processes and...2025-02-0319 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 43 - From Chaos to Gold🎙️ Episode 43: From Chaos to Gold – How IT Can Rise Like a Phoenix📰 Original Blog PostIn this episode, we tackle a hard truth: most IT departments are treated as cost centers, shackled by inefficiencies and shadow IT that drains profitability. Instead of driving innovation and enhancing product or service value, they’re stuck in mediocracy, operating in subpar ways that fail to contribute to organizational success.🚨 With 93% of digital transformations failing and $2.5T wasted in 2024 alone, how can IT break free from this cycle of dysfunction?🔦 We unveil the bluepri...2025-01-2811 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 42 - 70% of Transformations Fail at the Top📰 Original Blog Post: HERE.In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns 🦄, we uncover the #1 reason most digital transformations crash and burn—and it’s not what you think. It’s not IT teams, tech budgets, or even unrealistic timelines. The real culprit?👉 Leadership’s lack of engagement and alignment.Join us as we:💡 Explore why 70% of digital transformation failures start at the boardroom, backed by insights from McKinsey & Company.📝 Reveal how boards can rewrite the narrative by aligning purpose, strategy, and behaviors across their organizations.⛳️ Share a real-wo...2025-01-2115 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP41 - From Desert 🌵 to Forest 🌳Episode 41 - From Desert 🌵 to Forest 🌳: Turning IT Into a Goldmine of Opportunity 💰📰 Original Blog postIn this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, we take you on a transformative journey, exploring how IT can evolve from a costly liability into a profit-driving, strategic asset. The secret? Behavioral Markers—or Key Behavioral Indicators (KBIs)—that reveal whether your organization is thriving in a collaborative “Forest” 🌳 or stuck in a barren “Desert” 🌵.Join Michele Brissoni as he unpacks how KBIs go beyond metrics like DORA or SPACE to address the why behind team behaviors. Drawing...2025-01-1415 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP40 – Scaling IT Excellence: From Transformation to Evolution 🌱🎧 Podcast Description: Episode 40 – Scaling IT Excellence: From Transformation to Evolution 🎙️🚀📰 Original blog post HEREIn this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, we cut through the noise of buzzwords and hype to address the heart of IT’s most critical challenge: scaling excellence. 💡The numbers don’t lie:•91% of digital transformations fail (McKinsey, 2020).•77% of employees are disengaged, costing billions in lost productivity (Gallup, 2024).•And let’s not forget, 38% of professionals are burned out (Infinite Potential, 2024).So, how do you escape the cycle of transformation doo...2025-01-0717 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP39 – 2024 A Year to Remember🎧 Podcast Title: EP39 – A Year to Remember: Reflecting on 2024 and the Road Ahead 🌟📰 Original Blog HERE2024 was a year like no other for the IT world—marked by firsts, challenges, and transformative insights. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the highlights, lessons, and pivotal moments that shaped the year.🎙️ What’s Inside?•📈 The IT Inflation Era: How 2024 rewrote history with the first-ever IT inflation and its impact on budgets and priorities.•🧠 Burnout and Engagement Stagnation: Unpacking Gallup’s 2024 report—23% engagement and 38% burnout—and what it means for the future of work...2024-12-3018 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP38 - The Rise of the Behavioral Engineer🎙️ Episode 38: “The Rise of the Behavioral Engineer – How Data Fuels Transformation” 🚀In this episode, we explore the cutting-edge field of behavioral engineering and its growing influence on the IT landscape. Behavioral engineering isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a data-driven approach that transforms how organizations evolve, innovate, and thrive in an ever-changing world. 🌍📊Key takeaways include:✅ What it means to be a Behavioral Engineer and why this role is critical for the future of IT.✅ How data-driven insights unlock organizational transformation and measurable ROI.✅ The foundational frameworks that empower leaders...2024-12-2416 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP37 - A Real Story of Socio-Technical Evolution🎙️ EP37 - A Real Story of Socio-Technical Evolution 🌱 The Unicorns’ TouchHow do you turn chaos into cohesion? In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, we share a real-world story of transformation—where a team on the brink of burnout and organizational dysfunction evolved into a high-performing unit delivering an industry-leading platform. 🚀🔎 What You’ll Discover:•The nitty gritty details of the Unicorns' Ecosystem in action!•How socio-technical alignment 🌱 and behavioral engineering 🔧 turned daily firefighting into focused, meaningful work.•The role of product thinking and OKRs in aligning teams from the board...2024-12-1723 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP36 - Unlocking the Wisdom of #IAD24🎙️ Episode 36: Unlocking the Wisdom of #IAD24 - Talks That Inspire Digital Transformation SuccessIn this episode of The Forge of Unicorns, we dive into the brilliance of the Italian Agile Day 2024 (#IAD24), where transformative ideas, inspiring stories, and actionable insights took center stage. 🌟Join us as we explore:•Michele Brissoni’s talk, “Stop Transforming, Start Evolving,” where socio-technical evolution and behavioral engineering redefine digital transformation. 🌱•Andrea Provaglio’s insights into the Agile Manifesto, revisiting its roots to uncover its true essence. 🧠•Anna Di Girolamo’s powerful story of ethical agility drivi...2024-12-1217 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP35 - The Change Strategy Revolutionizing Boardrooms🎙️ Episode 35: The Change Strategy Revolutionizing Boardrooms—Our Unique Formula, Your Competitive Edge💼 Why do over 90% of digital transformations fail? In this episode, we break down the real reason behind these staggering stats—it’s not the tech, it’s the approach.Join us as we explore two contrasting change management scenarios through an A/B test:•Scenario A: The classic top-down trainwreck 🚂🔥.•Scenario B: A behavioral engineering masterpiece 🧠✨.Discover how small, data-driven steps can build sustainable cultures, empower leadership, and create teams that thrive on collaboration and innovation. W...2024-12-0312 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP34 - The Dangerous Myth of Harmless Behaviors🎙️ Episode 34: The Dangerous Myth of Harmless Behaviors – Sabotaging High-Performance Organizations 🚨In this episode of Forge of Unicorns, we explore the hidden impact of “harmless” behaviors in software organizations and how they quietly undermine collaboration, innovation, and performance. Inspired by insights from behavioral engineering and real-world organizational challenges, this episode unpacks why seemingly insignificant actions can lead to cultural drift—and how to address them.🌟 Key Takeaways:•What are “harmless” behaviors, and why are they so dangerous in high-performing teams?•Examples of these behaviors, like appearing to work rather than learn...2024-11-2815 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP33 - Stop Transforming, Start Evolving at #IAD24🎙️ Episode 33: Stop Transforming, Start Evolving – Reflections from IAD24 🎉In this episode of Forge of Unicorns, we take you inside the Italian Agile Days 2024 conference, where transformation meets evolution. Drawing from my talk, Stop Transforming, Start Evolving, and the broader discussions at IAD24, we explore why traditional, rigid transformation recipes are failing and how a socio-technical approach can drive sustainable, human-centered change.🌟 What’s Inside:•The 5 digital transformation anti-patterns you need to avoid and their actionable fixes.•A behind-the-scenes look at the Unicorns’ Ecosystem and how it bridges technical mastery and organizat...2024-11-1911 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 32 - A Sneak Peek into Italian Agile Days 2024🎙️ Episode 32: Stop Transforming, Start Evolving – Insights from IAD24 🎉In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of Italian Agile Days 2024, a gathering of agile thinkers, digital transformers, and craftsmanship advocates. Join us as we share highlights from the event, from lively unconference debates on logical thinking and behavioral engineering to memorable moments with fellow software crafters.Explore the deeper discussions from my talk, Stop Transforming, Start Evolving, where we tackled the pitfalls of rigid transformation and introduced our new partnership between BriX Consulting and Alcore Academy—a collaboration focused on evolving dojos that bring b...2024-11-1302 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP31 - Think You’ve Budgeted Enough for Digital Transformation?🎧 Episode 31 - Think You’ve Budgeted Enough for Digital Transformation? Think AgainIn this final episode of our mini-series on digital transformation failures, we tackle one of the biggest pitfalls: underestimating the true cost of DX. Many companies treat digital transformation as a one-time expense, only to find their budgets bursting at the seams as hidden costs emerge. From technical debt to delayed timelines and the underfunding of change management, we reveal why DX is more like a marathon than a sprint.Learn how companies can avoid these costly traps, plan for ongoing inves...2024-11-0511 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 30 - Tech Is Only Half the BattleEpisode 30 - Tech Is Only Half the Battle: How to Nail Digital Transformation with Change ManagementIn this episode of the Forge of Unicorns podcast, we dive into the crucial missing piece of most digital transformations: change management. Discover why DX isn’t just about tech upgrades but a comprehensive socio-technical transformation where people come first. We explore the risks of overlooking change management and share real-life stories—like Boeing’s 737 MAX crisis and Volkswagen’s Cariad project—that show how a lack of human-centered strategies can derail even the best tech plans.From the i...2024-10-2911 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP29 - Why Underestimating Digital Transformation Could Sink Your BusinessEpisode 29 - The Billion-Dollar Trap: Why Underestimating Digital Transformation Could Sink Your BusinessIn this episode, we dive into one of the most common yet costly mistakes companies make—underestimating the importance of digital transformation. We break down infamous billion-dollar failures from industry giants like Volkswagen, Boeing, and Sonos, revealing how their lack of a long-term vision and proper change management turned DX initiatives into disasters. Learn why digital transformation is more than just a tech upgrade and discover the critical role that organizational culture and human-centered change play in ensuring success.Tune in...2024-10-2306 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 28 - Unlock the Power of OKRs and DDDIn Episode 28 of The Forge of Unicorns, we’re diving into how OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) and Domain-Driven Design (DDD) can unlock the true potential of your digital transformation. 🗝️ Often, digital transformations fall short due to a misalignment between high-level economic goals and on-the-ground team actions. By integrating OKRs across all organizational levels—from the boardroom to individual teams—this episode reveals how to bridge this gap and steer your DX journey in the right direction.We’ll explore real-world success stories from Google to Netflix and show how combining OKRs with DDD enables organizations to speak a co...2024-10-1617 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 27 - The Hidden Connection Between Talent Drain and Digital Transformation FailureEpisode 27: The Hidden Connection Between Talent Drain and Digital Transformation Failure (And How to Fix It)In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on a critical issue that’s derailing digital transformations worldwide: the exodus of top talent. 🎙️We’ll explore why a staggering 93% of digital transformation (DX) projects fail, burning trillions of dollars and impacting millions of lives. The culprit? A toxic mix of lackluster talent retention and dysfunctional corporate cultures that stifle innovation and drive your best people away.Join us as we delve into:2024-10-1511 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 26 - Why Digital Transformations Keep Failing at a Massive Cost.In Episode 26, Michele Brissoni dives into the murky waters of digital transformation (DX) failures, spotlighting some of the most costly blunders—including Volkswagen’s €20 billion fiasco. 🚨 Why do 84% of DX initiatives flop despite the billions poured into them? Michele breaks down the five biggest reasons behind these failures, from resistance to change and lack of talent to underestimating costs and poor goal translation. But it’s not all bad news—Michele also offers actionable insights on how to avoid the billion-euro trap and turn your transformation from a looming disaster into a sustainable evolution. 🌱 Join us as we explore how...2024-10-0113 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 25 - Volkswagen’s 20 Billion Software Disaster.🎙️ Episode 25 - Volkswagen’s $20 Billion Software Disaster: How Poor Leadership Crashed Digital Transformation 🚨In this episode of The Forge of Unicorns 🌱, we dive deep into one of the most shocking failures in recent automotive history: Volkswagen’s $20 billion software disaster.💡 What went wrong?This isn’t just about broken code or missed deadlines—it’s a case study in poor leadership, top-down mandates, and a complete neglect of the socio-technical dynamics needed for a successful digital transformation.🔎 Key Highlights:•Why leadership misalignment and unrealistic goals turned innovation into chaos...2024-09-1733 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 24 - The Ugly Truth About AI Code Generators Exposed!📰 Blog: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ep-24-ugly-truth-ai-code-generators-exposed-goodbye-brissoni-1oe4f/🎙️ Episode 24 – The Ugly Truth About AI Code Generators: Exposed! Goodbye, Developer Quality?AI code generators promised faster, cheaper software development. But beneath the surface, what’s the real cost of “machine-written” code? 🤖In this episode, we pull back the curtain on:⚠️ The hidden flaws of AI-generated code: technical debt, security risks, and bugs.🛠️ Why blindly relying on AI tools erodes craftsmanship and weakens software quality.📉 How poorly trained developers using AI can amplify, not fix, organizational issues....2024-09-1615 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 23 - The Deadly Price of Cheap Code🎙️ Episode 23 – The Deadly Price of Cheap Code: Boeing’s Tragedy and the Looming Software Crisis📰 Blog: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ep-23-deadly-price-cheap-code-boeings-tragedy-looming-brissoni-uomtf/What happens when cost-cutting trumps quality in software engineering? Boeing’s tragic story reveals how technical shortcuts, poor leadership, and the relentless pursuit of profits led to catastrophic consequences.In this episode, we break down:✈️ The 737 MAX crisis and the systemic failures that caused it.💰 How leadership’s obsession with saving money on software cost lives and billions in damages.🛠️ Why prioritizing short-term gain...2024-09-1015 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP22 - From Tech Lead to Top SpeakerIn this episode, we dive into my journey from tech lead to recognized speaker, shaped by the invaluable insights from Gergely Orosz's 'The Pragmatic Engineer.' Discover how embracing software craftsmanship and continuous learning can propel your career to new heights. Join me as I reflect on the impact of mentorship, the power of clean code, and the crucial role of leadership in today’s fast-paced tech landscape. Whether you're an aspiring tech leader or a seasoned pro, this episode offers actionable insights to help you navigate and thrive in the ever-evolving world of IT.2024-09-0309 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 21 - Avoid Tech Disasters Like a ProIn Episode 21, we shift gears from the racetrack to the tech world, exploring how the principles of Ferrari’s elite driving school can transform your IT department. Learn why continuous active learning is the secret sauce to avoiding tech disasters and driving your team to peak performance. Tune in to discover how to steer your organization away from costly mistakes and toward digital excellence—just like a pro driver on the track! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-2711 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP20 - The Hidden Cause Behind Tech Disasters 💥🎧 In this episode, we dive deep into the underlying issues that have led to recent tech catastrophes, from the CrowdStrike crash to the NYTimes security breach. Discover why traditional training methods are failing and how continuous active learning can save your organization from similar disasters. Backed by insights from "Make It Stick" by Peter C. Brown, "The Talent Code" by Daniel Coyle, and "Modern Software Engineering" by Dave Farley, this episode is a must-listen for tech leaders looking to evolve their teams. Tune in to learn more about how to build a culture of excellence and inno...2024-08-2007 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 19 - From Hype to HorrorIn this episode, we explore the dark side of the AI hype, uncovering how recent missteps are wreaking havoc in the tech industry. From inflated expectations to catastrophic failures, we analyze the ripple effects on major tech giants and the stock market. Discover why these AI blunders are a wake-up call for CXOs and how they can avoid falling into the same traps. Tune in to learn how to navigate the AI landscape without getting burned. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-1309 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP18 - The Déjà Vu Disaster. When Will We Learn?In this episode, we dive into the unsettling recurrence of IT failures and ask the critical question: when will we finally learn from our mistakes? Reflecting on recent disasters, we explore why history keeps repeating itself and what steps IT leaders must take to prevent future crises. Tune in to understand the patterns, analyze the failures, and discover how the Unicorns' Ecosystem could be the key to breaking this cycle.🎧 Listen now to stay ahead of the curve! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-0610 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP 17 - How a Tiny Bug Took Down the WorldIn Episode 17, we delve into the shocking impact of a minor software glitch that triggered a global IT crisis. Discover how a single bug in CrowdStrike's Falcon Sensor led to billions in economic losses, crippling Fortune 500 companies and highlighting the critical need for robust software engineering practices. Join us as we explore the technical details, industry analysis, and the broader implications for digital transformation. Learn how to prevent such disasters and why evolving beyond the status quo is essential for digital resilience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-3010 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP16 - The Future of Data in Digital TransformationEp16 - The Future of Data in Digital TransformationIn Episode 16 of "The Forge of Unicorns," we dive into the pivotal role data plays in digital transformation. Discover how the Unicorns' Ecosystem leverages real-time data to guide organizational evolution, ensuring adaptive and responsive growth. Learn why embracing data-driven decision-making is crucial for continuous improvement, tracking progress, and aligning goals. Join us as we explore how to harness the power of data for effective transformation and sustainable digital excellence. Tune in now! 🎧#DigitalTransformation #DataDriven #UnicornsEcosystem #Agile #Leadership #Innovation Hosted on A...2024-07-3004 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP15 - Organizational Assessments🎧 Dive into our latest audiostory: "Organizational Assessments: Evolution Driven by Data." 📊 Discover how our unique, data-driven approach helps organizations make informed decisions, track progress, and ensure continuous improvement. Learn about the five-layer assessment model and how it integrates with OKRs to drive meaningful evolution. Perfect for leaders aiming to transform their organizations with precision and efficiency. Don't miss this insightful episode on the future of data in digital transformation! 🚀#DigitalTransformation #DataDriven #Leadership #Innovation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-1007 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP14 - SAFe Isn't the ProblemIn this episode, we delve into why "SAFe isn't the problem!" Discover the importance of evolving your organization beyond traditional frameworks. Learn how to decode the human factor in digital transformation with behavioral engineering and expert guidance. Tune in for insights on avoiding costly missteps and fostering genuine growth. 🚀Listen now to unlock the secrets of successful agile transformation! 🎧#DigitalTransformation #Agile #SAFe #Leadership #Innovation #BehavioralEngineering Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-0207 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP12: XP2024 Conference. The Post-Impressions🎙️ XP 2024 Conference: The Post Impressions 🎙️Join me as I recap the thrilling experience at the XP 2024 conference in Bolzano! From riding my Aprilia through challenging weather to engaging with tech legends like Jon Kern, J. B. Rainsberger, and Diana Larsen, this episode is packed with insights and highlights. Discover how the Ferrari Formula 1 engineering mindset inspired the creation of the Unicorns' Ecosystem, shaping the future of digital evolution. Don't miss out on the behind-the-scenes stories and key takeaways from this epic event!Tune in now and stay ahead in the world of digital transforma...2024-06-1807 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP11: One Week for XP2024: Unveiling the Unicorns EcosystemIn this episode, we dive into the inspiration behind the Unicorns Ecosystem, drawing from the secrets of Michael Schumacher's F1 success. Discover how the engineering mindset of Formula 1 can revolutionize software development and digital excellence. Special thanks to Christian Brissoni and Simone Zucco for their invaluable insights. Get ready for the big reveal at XP2024! Tune in to learn more about transforming digital transformations into sustainable evolution. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-06-1103 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP10: Thus, Why is It Evolving?Episode 10: Thus, Why Is It Evolving?In this episode, we dive into the essence of organizational evolution versus transformation. Discover why evolving, supported by a holistic, data-driven approach, is key to sustainable and rewarding change. Learn how an evolutionary mindset, aligned with clear OKRs and continuous improvement, can transform your organization from within. Tune in to understand why "STOP transforming, START evolving" is not just a mantra, but a strategic imperative.🎧 Listen now and start your journey toward true digital evolution! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for...2024-05-2805 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP9: STOP ✋ transforming 🚧. START 🌱 evolving 🔄!In this episode, we dive into the transformative insights from the IT Revolution Tech Leadership Summit Europe 2024. Discover why stopping the traditional approach to transformation and embracing an evolution mindset is key. Learn about the steps to objectively assess your organization, craft a vision, foster black belt mindsets, and continuously improve using the KBI framework. Ready to evolve your organization into a hub of innovation? Tune in now!#DigitalTransformation #Leadership #Evolution #Podcast #Innovation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-05-2104 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP8: Deep Dive into My Talk at the IT Revolution Enterprise Technical Leadership Summit Europe 2024Tune in to the latest episode as I take you on a deep dive into my talk at the IT Revolution Enterprise Technical Leadership Summit Europe 2024. Learn about the evolution of the SW Craftsmanship Dojo® and the intersection of technical excellence and behavioral engineering. Discover how my mantra "STOP transforming, START evolving" guides organizational change and fosters digital excellence. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of tech leadership! 🎙️ LINK to the IT Revolution Video Library with the talk: https://videos.itrevolution.com/watch/941947632#TechLeadership #DigitalExcellence #BehavioralEngineering #SWCraftsmanshipDojo Hosted on Acast...2024-05-1404 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP7: the post IT Revolution Tech Leadership Summit Europe 2024Tune in to the latest episode as we unpack the highlights of the IT Revolution Tech Leadership Summit Europe 2024! Join us as we explore the electrifying insights and innovations from this cutting-edge event, featuring discussions on organizational evolution, AI's transformative impact, and much more. Don't miss out on this insightful recap! #ETLS24 #TechLeadership #Innovation #ITRevolution Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-05-0703 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP6: Behind the Scenes of the IT Revolution Tech Leadership Summit🎙️ Dive into the behind-the-scenes action of the IT Revolution Tech Leadership Summit! Learn how AI turned the tables on conference prep, allowing for a top-notch presentation in record time. From scripting to video editing, it's a journey you won't want to miss! Tune in now.#leadership, #behaviourengineering, #crisis, #greatresignation, #disengagement, #burnoutbattle, #burnout , #layoffs, #ProductivityPlummet, #behaviorengineering, #aichallenges , #leadershipdynamics , #techtrends , #futureofwork , #upskillingcareer , #reskilling, #training, #techsolutions , #employeeengagement , #workplacewellness , #hrstrategy , #TrainingBudgets, #humanbehavior , #organizationalresilience , #digitaltransformation, #devops, #agile, #ceo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-3004 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP5: Empowering LeadersJoin us in the latest episode as we unveil an exciting new chapter in the digital realm! Discover the innovative Behavior Engineering platform, starting with the groundbreaking Software Craftsmanship Dojo®. Dive into a dojo where elite developers hone their skills through coding katas and neuroplasticity training, aiming to redefine excellence in software craftsmanship. Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming IT Revolution Enterprise Technology Leadership Summit Europe Virtual, where we'll be discussing our platform. Don't miss out on this opportunity to accelerate your organization's digital journey and forge impactful connections. Tune in now and stay tuned for our n...2024-04-2103 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP4: Navigating the Talent Storm: A CXO's Battle Against Burnout, and DisengagementDive into the drama unfolding in today's organizational landscape with our latest blog post. Amidst reports of soaring disengagement, rampant burnout, and sinking productivity levels, organizations are facing a stormy sea of challenges. But fear not! Explore how upskilling via behavior engineering can be your guiding light in navigating this talent storm and steering your organization toward success.Join the conversation now!#Leadership #BehaviorEngineering #TalentStorm, #DisengagementChallenge, #BurnoutBattle, #ProductivityPlummet, #BehaviorEngineering, #AIChallenges, #LeadershipDynamics, #TechTrends, #FutureOfWork, #Upskilling, #Reskilling, #TechSolutions, #EmployeeEngagement, #WorkplaceWellness, #HRStrategy, #TrainingBudgets, #HumanBehavior, #OrganizationalResilience, #DigitalTransformation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-1808 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP3: Upskilling and Reskilling: Your Ticket to Thriving in the AI EraDive into the world of upskilling and reskilling to thrive in the AI era. With insights from RedHat, McKinsey, and Thoughtworks, we're gearing up for a revolution in tech skills and team dynamics.Join us at BriX Consulting for a free organizational assessment and let's transform your organization into unicorns!Links from the blogpost:Red Hat tries on a McKinsey cap in quest to streamline techies' jobsTechRadar 2024 - AI team assistentBriX Consulting - Request a free Organization Assessment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-1605 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP2: Unlocking The Power of Behavior Engineering in Digital TransformationBehavior Engineering: The Secret Weapon for Digital TransformationDigital transformation expert Michele Brissoni, CEO of BriX Consulting explains how understanding user behavior is key to success. Behavior engineering uses psychology and neuroscience to design interventions that drive positive change within your organization. This approach can help you overcome resistance, boost innovation, and achieve lasting results. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-1103 min
The forge of Unicorns - by Michele BrissoniEP1: AI won’t save you from failing in digital transformations.In this eye-opening blog post, we debunk the myth that AI is the ultimate savior of failing digital transformations. Addressing CXOs and high-flying executives, we delve into the root causes of stagnant digital efforts, urging a shift away from superficial solutions.We dissect common pitfalls, including the misconception of Agile and DevOps as off-the-shelf remedies, emphasizing the need for a holistic, behavioral-driven approach. Drawing from extensive expertise in neuroscience and behavioral psychology, we advocate for Behavior Engineering as the key to sustainable transformation.It's time to move beyond band-aid fixes and embrace genuine...2024-04-0904 min